Kabul's first snowfall of the season brings excitement and joy to the city's residents, marking a moment of celebration amid challenging times.

Afghanistan's first snowfall in Kabul brings joy to residents

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Khalil, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Explosion hits Refugee ministry</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">According to sources, a suicide attack occurred early in the day at the refugee ministry where Haqqani was present. The attacker, reportedly a refugee seeking papers and assistance, detonated himself as Khalil passed through the corridor of the ministry post-lunch. Casualties, though unconfirmed, are believed to be significant.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-minister-khalil-haqqani-killed-in-explosion-in-kabul-783237">Taliban Minister Khalil Haqqani killed in explosion in Kabul</a></strong></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Khalil Haqqani and the Haqqani network</strong></h2>

<p>Khalil was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban. He was the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban's interior minister and a prominent leader. The Haqqani network has long been associated with violence and militant operations, and the family holds significant influence within the Taliban government.</p>

<p>Khalil Haqqani has been managing the ongoing refugee crisis in Afghanistan, dealing with large numbers of displaced people. His role in handling the refugee situation had put him at the forefront of Taliban governance, making his death a significant blow to the group.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-women-turn-to-entrepreneurship-amid-taliban-restrictions-779397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Impact on Taliban leadership</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Haqqani's death marks a significant loss for the Taliban, especially given his family's stronghold within the group's leadership. The bombing adds to growing concerns over the security situation in Kabul and across Afghanistan, as the Taliban continues to struggle with internal and external challenges.<br />
<br />
(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)&nbsp;</p>


Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Khalil, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital.

Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Khalil, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital. Explosion hits Refugee ministry According to sources, a suicide attack occurred early in the day at the refugee ministry where Haqqani was present. The attacker, reportedly a refugee seeking papers and assistance, detonated himself as Khalil passed through the corridor of the ministry post-lunch. Casualties, though unconfirmed, are believed to be significant. Also Read: Taliban Minister Khalil Haqqani killed in explosion in Kabul Khalil Haqqani and the Haqqani network Khalil was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban. He was the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban's interior minister and a prominent leader. The Haqqani network has long been associated with violence and militant operations, and the family holds significant influence within the Taliban government. Khalil Haqqani has been managing the ongoing refugee crisis in Afghanistan, dealing with large numbers of displaced people. His role in handling the refugee situation had put him at the forefront of Taliban governance, making his death a significant blow to the group. Watch: Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions Impact on Taliban leadership Haqqani's death marks a significant loss for the Taliban, especially given his family's stronghold within the group's leadership. The bombing adds to growing concerns over the security situation in Kabul and across Afghanistan, as the Taliban continues to struggle with internal and external challenges. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani killed in Kabul bombing: Who was he?

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Haqqani, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Explosion hits Kabul mosque</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">According to sources, a suicide attack occurred early in the day at a mosque where Haqqani was present. The attacker, reportedly a refugee seeking papers and assistance, detonated himself as Khalil passed through the corridor of the ministry post-lunch. Casualties, though unconfirmed, are believed to be significant.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-minister-khalil-haqqani-killed-in-explosion-in-kabul-783237">Taliban Minister Khalil Haqqani killed in explosion in Kabul</a></strong></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Khalil Haqqani and the Haqqani network</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Khalil Haqqani was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban. He was the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban's interior minister and a prominent leader. The Haqqani network has long been associated with violence and militant operations, and the family holds significant influence within the Taliban government.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Khalil Haqqani has been managing the ongoing refugee crisis in Afghanistan, dealing with large numbers of displaced people. His role in handling the refugee situation had put him at the forefront of Taliban governance, making his death a significant blow to the group.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-women-turn-to-entrepreneurship-amid-taliban-restrictions-779397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Impact on Taliban leadership</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Haqqani's death marks a significant loss for the Taliban, especially given his family's stronghold within the group's leadership. The bombing adds to growing concerns over the security situation in Kabul and across Afghanistan, as the Taliban continues to struggle with internal and external challenges.<br />
<br />
(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)&nbsp;</p>


Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Haqqani, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital.

Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Haqqani, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital. Explosion hits Kabul mosque According to sources, a suicide attack occurred early in the day at a mosque where Haqqani was present. The attacker, reportedly a refugee seeking papers and assistance, detonated himself as Khalil passed through the corridor of the ministry post-lunch. Casualties, though unconfirmed, are believed to be significant. Also Read: Taliban Minister Khalil Haqqani killed in explosion in Kabul Khalil Haqqani and the Haqqani network Khalil Haqqani was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban. He was the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban's interior minister and a prominent leader. The Haqqani network has long been associated with violence and militant operations, and the family holds significant influence within the Taliban government. Khalil Haqqani has been managing the ongoing refugee crisis in Afghanistan, dealing with large numbers of displaced people. His role in handling the refugee situation had put him at the forefront of Taliban governance, making his death a significant blow to the group. Watch: Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions Impact on Taliban leadership Haqqani's death marks a significant loss for the Taliban, especially given his family's stronghold within the group's leadership. The bombing adds to growing concerns over the security situation in Kabul and across Afghanistan, as the Taliban continues to struggle with internal and external challenges. (With inputs from agencies)

Khalil Haqqani killed in Kabul mosque bombing: Who was he?

The territorial tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan are on the rise again. In the latest, Islamabad has accused Kabul of harbouring terrorist networks on its soil. Pakistan's intelligence service has claimed that the Besham attack was planned in Afghanistan.

Pakistan blames Afghanistan for Besham attack, says 'plot to kill Chinese hatched in Afghanistan'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidMlnFmGJqYtMb" /></p>

<p>The United States said in a recent review that a 2021 suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 American troops, could not have been prevented "at the tactical level". But a never-before-seen video seen by CNN put the Pentagon account under a cloud.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on August 26, 2021?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>People were desperate to flee Afghanistan after the US and other Western forces withdrew from Afghanistan. NATO Allies and partner countries had military forces deployed to Afghanistan for nearly 20 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But as per the Doha deal, all US forces were supposed to depart by 11 September and the Taliban took power in the closing days of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-start-sending-military-aid-to-ukraine-within-hours-joe-biden-714635">US will start sending military aid to Ukraine within hours: Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The evacuation began in August 2021, with more than 120,000 people evacuated in the Allied airlift from Kabul airport, including around 2,000 Afghans working for NATO, and their families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tragic Abbey Gate bombing happened on August 26 outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport. It turned out to be the worst casualty incident for Afghan civilians and US troops in Afghanistan in over a decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack, which was claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group, targeted crowds of people on the perimeter of Kabul airport who were desperate to get on a flight out of the country. The White House said last year that the Taliban killed the mastermind of the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read&nbsp;:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-forces-carrying-out-offensive-action-in-south-lebanon-714598">Israel carrying out ‘offensive action’ in south Lebanon, claims half of Hezbollah’s commanders ‘eliminated’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Last week, a review team member told journalists on condition of anonymity that "there was no opportunity to engage the bomber&nbsp;prior to&nbsp;the attack," which "was not preventable at the tactical level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The review team member said that the bomber arrived "very shortly before the attack," and was not the "suspicious individual" identified by snipers earlier in the day of the bombing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that "over the past two years, some servicemembers have claimed that they had the bomber in their sights, and they could have prevented the attack. But we now know that is not correct."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia, US set for a showdown on a crucial UNSC vote&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What does the new video suggest?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The new video evidence,&nbsp;captured by a Marine's GoPro camera, suggests that&nbsp;there was far more gunfire than the Pentagon has ever admitted. The video has not been seen publicly in full before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that a dozen US military personnel who were on the scene spoke to the outlet on condition of anonymity. They shared details of the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US claims that all deaths and injuries were caused by the explosive device and the ball bearings it fired into the crowd,&nbsp;but a military personnel told CNN that he heard the first large burst of shooting come from where US Marines were standing. "It wasn't onesies and twosies. It was a mass volume of gunfire," the Marine said as quoted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The United States said in a recent review that a 2021 suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 American troops, could not have been prevented "at the tactical level".

The United States said in a recent review that a 2021 suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 American troops, could not have been prevented "at the tactical level". But a never-before-seen video seen by CNN put the Pentagon account under a cloud. What happened on August 26, 2021? People were desperate to flee Afghanistan after the US and other Western forces withdrew from Afghanistan. NATO Allies and partner countries had military forces deployed to Afghanistan for nearly 20 years. But as per the Doha deal, all US forces were supposed to depart by 11 September and the Taliban took power in the closing days of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. Also read: US will start sending military aid to Ukraine within hours: Joe Biden The evacuation began in August 2021, with more than 120,000 people evacuated in the Allied airlift from Kabul airport, including around 2,000 Afghans working for NATO, and their families. The tragic Abbey Gate bombing happened on August 26 outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport. It turned out to be the worst casualty incident for Afghan civilians and US troops in Afghanistan in over a decade. The attack, which was claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group, targeted crowds of people on the perimeter of Kabul airport who were desperate to get on a flight out of the country. The White House said last year that the Taliban killed the mastermind of the attack. Also read :Israel carrying out ‘offensive action’ in south Lebanon, claims half of Hezbollah’s commanders ‘eliminated’ Last week, a review team member told journalists on condition of anonymity that "there was no opportunity to engage the bomber prior to the attack," which "was not preventable at the tactical level". The review team member said that the bomber arrived "very shortly before the attack," and was not the "suspicious individual" identified by snipers earlier in the day of the bombing. He further said that "over the past two years, some servicemembers have claimed that they had the bomber in their sights, and they could have prevented the attack. But we now know that is not correct." Watch: Gravitas: Russia, US set for a showdown on a crucial UNSC vote × What does the new video suggest? The new video evidence, captured by a Marine's GoPro camera, suggests that there was far more gunfire than the Pentagon has ever admitted. The video has not been seen publicly in full before. The report said that a dozen US military personnel who were on the scene spoke to the outlet on condition of anonymity. They shared details of the incident. The US claims that all deaths and injuries were caused by the explosive device and the ball bearings it fired into the crowd, but a military personnel told CNN that he heard the first large burst of shooting come from where US Marines were standing. "It wasn't onesies and twosies. It was a mass volume of gunfire," the Marine said as quoted. (With inputs from agencies)

New video puts Pentagon account of 2021 Kabul airport attack under cloud: Report

New video evidence significantly undermines two Pentagon investigations, the latest of which was released last week, into an ISIS-K suicide attack outside Kabul airport, during the American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. Watch in for more details!

New evidence challenges Pentagon's account of 2021 Kabul attack

<p>An old landmine, supposedly laid during decades-old conflict in Afghanistan, exploded overnight in the southeastern part of the nation, killing nine children - five girls and four boys - a provincial official said Monday (Apr 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the provincial head of the information and culture department, Hamidullah Nisar, the "unexploded mine" went off on Sunday as a group of young boys and girls were playing with it in the district of Geru, in Ghazni province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"An unexploded mine left over from the time of the Russian invasion went off when they were playing with it. Unfortunately, it killed nine children," Nisar told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-slams-opposition-over-anti-india-campaign-and-calls-for-burn-your-wives-indian-sarees-706471">Bangladesh PM dares opposition amidst anti-India campaign: 'Burn your wives' Indian sarees'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Local police from the region said that the children were aged from four to 10 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nisar claimed that the ordnance was left over from the time of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s.</p>

<p>The United Nations in Kabul said Monday that tens of thousands of civilians, including women and children, in Afghanistan, had been killed or injured by landmines and explosives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It posted on X that UN&nbsp;"#MinAction partners have cleared 3,011 km2 (1,162 mi2) of land." It stressed&nbsp;that "more work"&nbsp;was needed to protect Afghans.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-enforces-red-carpet-ban-at-official-events-to-cut-costs-amid-economic-crisis-706218">Pak enforces red carpet ban at official events to cut expenses amid economic crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflicts from the Soviet invasion in 1979, after that the civil war, and the 20-year Taliban insurgency against foreign-backed governments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During that time, different parts of the nation were littered with unexploded mines, grenades and mortars from conflict&nbsp;spanning decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, ending the insurgency, violence has reduced dramatically across the country. But remnants of the past still haunt the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An old landmine, supposedly laid during decades-old conflict in Afghanistan, exploded overnight in the southeastern part of the nation, killing nine children - five girls and four boys - a provincial official said Monday (Apr 1).

An old landmine, supposedly laid during decades-old conflict in Afghanistan, exploded overnight in the southeastern part of the nation, killing nine children - five girls and four boys - a provincial official said Monday (Apr 1). According to the provincial head of the information and culture department, Hamidullah Nisar, the "unexploded mine" went off on Sunday as a group of young boys and girls were playing with it in the district of Geru, in Ghazni province. "An unexploded mine left over from the time of the Russian invasion went off when they were playing with it. Unfortunately, it killed nine children," Nisar told AFP. Also read: Bangladesh PM dares opposition amidst anti-India campaign: 'Burn your wives' Indian sarees' Local police from the region said that the children were aged from four to 10 years. Nisar claimed that the ordnance was left over from the time of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s. The United Nations in Kabul said Monday that tens of thousands of civilians, including women and children, in Afghanistan, had been killed or injured by landmines and explosives. It posted on X that UN "#MinAction partners have cleared 3,011 km2 (1,162 mi2) of land." It stressed that "more work" was needed to protect Afghans. Also read: Pak enforces red carpet ban at official events to cut expenses amid economic crisis Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflicts from the Soviet invasion in 1979, after that the civil war, and the 20-year Taliban insurgency against foreign-backed governments. During that time, different parts of the nation were littered with unexploded mines, grenades and mortars from conflict spanning decades. However, since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, ending the insurgency, violence has reduced dramatically across the country. But remnants of the past still haunt the nation. (With inputs from agencies)

Old landmine explodes in southeastern Afghanistan; nine children killed

Two former top US Generals have blamed the Biden Administration for the chaotic departure of US forces from Afghanistan. Watch to know more!

US: Ex-Generals blame Biden administration for chaotic Kabul exit

Top former US Generals on Kabul withdrawal: Poor planning led to chaos

<p>An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that&nbsp;both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (<a href="https://twitter.com/deepti_jharwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepti_jharwal</a>) on the Indian side. <a href="https://t.co/4cDuy2NyJs">pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1765773305548542147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a></strong></p>

<p>After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy.</p>

<p>India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan</strong></p>

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<p>Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption.</p>

<p>Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region".</p>

<p>Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students.</p>

<p>The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port.</p>

<p>While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (@deepti_jharwal) on the Indian side. pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 7, 2024 × JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7). India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting. Also read | Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy. India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost. Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha. Also watch | American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan × Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption. Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region". Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students. The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port. While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid. (With inputs from agencies)

India's senior diplomat meets Taliban representative in Kabul

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Maryam Nawaz- Pakistan's rising political star

An Indian representative attended a meeting convened by the Taliban government in Kabul even though New Delhi does not officially recognise the administration.

India's outreach to Taliban; Indian diplomat meets Taliban Foreign Minister

<p>Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the&nbsp;grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.</p>

<p>He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet</strong></p>

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<p>The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.</p>

<p>"The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement.</p>

<p>The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week.</p>

<h2><strong>Earlier attacks in Kabul</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks&nbsp;was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics.</p>

<p>IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan.</p>

<p>The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the&nbsp;number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized&nbsp;power in August 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>However, a&nbsp;number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan)&nbsp; -- remain a security&nbsp;threat for the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.

Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said. He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator. Also watch | At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet × The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community. "The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement. The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week. Earlier attacks in Kabul On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics. IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan. The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized power in August 2021. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report However, a number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan) -- remain a security threat for the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul: Two killed as Afghanistan capital rocked by deadly explosion

<p>Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footage, which has gone viral on the internet, shows the men owing allegiance to the extremist regime smoothly skating amidst traffic, even alongside a moving truck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report from The Telegraph, the camouflage-clad Taliban members were not only navigating the streets on rollerblades but also took on the role of traffic directors.</p>

<p>The authenticity of the video was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Kabul Police, who stated that the individuals in the footage were officers from the public security police, operating with Afghanistan's interior ministry.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meanwhile, please join me in trying to figure out why there is a video of Taliban’s special forces roller skating around Kabul… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/8Wn15leKMR">pic.twitter.com/8Wn15leKMR</a></p>
— Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) <a href="https://twitter.com/KabirTaneja/status/1724288718633373980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Muslim Afghan, a member of the Taliban security team, expressed his amusement at the skating skills displayed by the organisation's younger members. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was really fun- amazing balance and body strength. It might be common in the world elsewhere, but for us, it was rare to see on the roads of Kabul," he told The Telegraph.</p>

<p>The video, initially shared on YouTube on November 11 by Yadullah Marvi, a self-described "parkour athlete" in Afghanistan, is a 22-minute spectacle.</p>

<p>The description of the 22-minute-long video reads, "The first part of the military performance of figure skating in the streets of Kabul."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>Marvi's description also teased more parts to come, showcasing both the figure skaters' movements and the reactions of the local populace.</p>

<p>"In this video, the movements of our figure skaters were filmed, and people's reactions were also filmed, and this is the first part of the video. Wait for the next parts!" the user wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban took back the control of Afghanistan after the United States concluded its troops withdrawal from the South Asia country in August 2021. In the two years since, the Taliban have imposed their interpretation of Shariah laws, with women barred from modern education and accessing public amenities and spaces where they could mingle with male counterparts. The United Nations has termed it "gender apartheid".</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>


Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles.

Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles. The footage, which has gone viral on the internet, shows the men owing allegiance to the extremist regime smoothly skating amidst traffic, even alongside a moving truck. According to a report from The Telegraph, the camouflage-clad Taliban members were not only navigating the streets on rollerblades but also took on the role of traffic directors. The authenticity of the video was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Kabul Police, who stated that the individuals in the footage were officers from the public security police, operating with Afghanistan's interior ministry. Meanwhile, please join me in trying to figure out why there is a video of Taliban’s special forces roller skating around Kabul… #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/8Wn15leKMR — Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) November 14, 2023 × Muslim Afghan, a member of the Taliban security team, expressed his amusement at the skating skills displayed by the organisation's younger members. "It was really fun- amazing balance and body strength. It might be common in the world elsewhere, but for us, it was rare to see on the roads of Kabul," he told The Telegraph. The video, initially shared on YouTube on November 11 by Yadullah Marvi, a self-described "parkour athlete" in Afghanistan, is a 22-minute spectacle. The description of the 22-minute-long video reads, "The first part of the military performance of figure skating in the streets of Kabul." Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × Marvi's description also teased more parts to come, showcasing both the figure skaters' movements and the reactions of the local populace. "In this video, the movements of our figure skaters were filmed, and people's reactions were also filmed, and this is the first part of the video. Wait for the next parts!" the user wrote. Also read | Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus The Taliban took back the control of Afghanistan after the United States concluded its troops withdrawal from the South Asia country in August 2021. In the two years since, the Taliban have imposed their interpretation of Shariah laws, with women barred from modern education and accessing public amenities and spaces where they could mingle with male counterparts. The United Nations has termed it "gender apartheid". (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Taliban patrol Kabul's streets with rollerblades and Ak-47 rifles

Tens of thousands of Afghan refugees who fled the Taliban in 2021 scrambled to leave Pakistan on Tuesday, hours before the end of a deadline after which Islamabad plans to arrest or deport undocumented immigrants, a move that has drawn international criticism and fears of a humanitarian crisis.

Undocumented Afghans being detained in Pakistan, over 300 migrants arrested in Karachi

<p>Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said.</p>

<p>Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.</p>

<p>"A police investigation team has reached the area and is working to uncover the cause of the explosion," he said.</p>

<p>The nine injured had been taken to a hospital, he added, without providing details on the seriousness of their injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/about-200-afghan-refugees-to-relocate-from-pakistan-to-uk-on-charter-flights-on-oct-26-651419">&nbsp;About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26</a></strong></p>

<p>Images shared on social media that could not be immediately independently verified showed the sides blown out of part of a multi-story building that was still blazing with fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitts used in martial arts training were among shattered glass on the ground in one video and local media reports said the site of the blast housed a sports gym.</p>

<p>The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-gets-major-relief-from-court-army-dominated-nab-in-corruption-cases-651600">Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases</a></strong></p>

<p>The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government.</p>

<p>However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat.</p>


Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.

Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community. "A police investigation team has reached the area and is working to uncover the cause of the explosion," he said. The nine injured had been taken to a hospital, he added, without providing details on the seriousness of their injuries. ALSO READ | About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26 Images shared on social media that could not be immediately independently verified showed the sides blown out of part of a multi-story building that was still blazing with fire. Mitts used in martial arts training were among shattered glass on the ground in one video and local media reports said the site of the blast housed a sports gym. The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms. ALSO READ | Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government. However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat.

Afghanistan: At least two killed, nine injured after blast in predominantly Shiite Kabul neighbourhood

Search and rescue operations are still underway days after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked Afghanistan and left thousands of people dead and injured.

Afghanistan earthquakes death toll rise to 400

On October 7, 2023, a powerful earthquake struck western Afghanistan, with a magnitude of 6.3. The epicentre was located 25 miles (40 kilometres) west of Herat city in the western Herat province. The earthquake was the third largest in Afghanistan and was followed by multiple aftershocks.

Earthquake in Afghanistan: More than 2000 killed, over 10,000 injured

It's been two years since the fall of Kabul. Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are prohibited from going to secondary school. Taliban authorities have imposed an austere interpretation of Islam since storming to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of the U.S.-led foreign forces that backed the previous governments. There are many who managed to flee the country to pursue their dreams. Many universities based out of the United States came up with different scholarships to help displaced Afghan students. How are these Afghan students doing now? Take a look

Afghan women in crisis: will world leaders at UNGA act now?

Is China Taliban's new best friend? China has become the first country to officially establish diplomatic ties with the Taliban. It has also appointed a new envoy in Kabul. What is China's game plan? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China formalises diplomatic ties with Taliban | China appoints envoy to Kabul

A gun battle erupted between Pakistan border forces and Afghan Taliban on the 6th of September. Both sides pinned the blame on each other for triggering the firefight which resulted in the shutdown of their busiest trade crossing. In a separate incident on the same day, Pakistan military claimed to have repelled a cross-border raid from Afghanistan by hundreds of Pakistan Taliban militants. Caretaker Pakistani foreign minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, tried to diffuse the situation by claiming that the Chitral attack was an isolated incident and didn't have the sanction of the Afghan government. On Saturday, seven more terrorists were killed by the security forces in an intense exchange of fire in the Chitral district. Since Taliban's ascension to power in Kabul two years ago, Islamabad and Kabul have had frosty relations. Islamabad has accused Kabul of harboring militants carrying out attacks on Pakistani soil, a charge denied by Afghan Taliban.

Busiest trade crossing between Pak-Afg shut down | World at War

<p>In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021.<br />
<br />
The humiliating experience was for the first time recounted in a new book, <em>Kabul: The Untold Story of Biden’s Fiasco and the American Warriors Who Fought to the End.</em><br />
<br />
On August 28, 2021, the passenger terminal of the Kabul airport was filthy after the United States' botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. For a week, more than 120,000 Afghans had camped at the terminal, “defecating and leaving trash, bags, clothes, and other unspeakable things.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/video-viral-shows-ttp-leader-giving-instructions-to-terrorists-involved-in-attack-on-pak-check-post-633668">Viral video shows Pak Taliban chief giving orders to terrorists involved in attack on check post</a></p>

<h2><strong>Order accompanied by threat</strong></h2>

<p>At every level, Marines were left infuriated after the officials were “forced to scoop up human poop.” The order to clean “came with a threat that we would not leave at all if it was not completed,” stated one junior Marine, while interacting with authors Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson.<br />
<br />
“It was degrading and ridiculous. We took a lot of casualties and put a lot of effort into that mission and to close it out that way was wrong. Morale was really down at that point, and it was an extremely pointless effort,” he added.<br />
<br />
“It was the final indignity for our military heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way to satisfy a callous commander-in-chief who kept changing his mind to suit the political winds,” the junior stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan Closes Vital Border Crossing with Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US' hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan</strong></h2>

<p>The withdrawal of the United States was completed on 30 August 2021 as the Taliban took over the war-ravaged country after waging a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces which had invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, in the wake of September 11 terror attacks that year.<br />
<br />
After the withdrawal, the US Central Command head said that there was "a lot of heartbreak" during the departure. The US and its NATO allies were forced to exit Afghanistan hastily as they failed to anticipate that the Taliban would take over so quickly.<br />
<br />
The military withdrawal of the United States from Afghanistan was completed after a huge and chaotic airlift which took the lives of 13 US service members, leaving behind hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghans still seeking an escape from Taliban rule.</p>

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In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021.

In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021. The humiliating experience was for the first time recounted in a new book, Kabul: The Untold Story of Biden’s Fiasco and the American Warriors Who Fought to the End. On August 28, 2021, the passenger terminal of the Kabul airport was filthy after the United States' botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. For a week, more than 120,000 Afghans had camped at the terminal, “defecating and leaving trash, bags, clothes, and other unspeakable things.” ALSO READ | Viral video shows Pak Taliban chief giving orders to terrorists involved in attack on check post Order accompanied by threat At every level, Marines were left infuriated after the officials were “forced to scoop up human poop.” The order to clean “came with a threat that we would not leave at all if it was not completed,” stated one junior Marine, while interacting with authors Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson. “It was degrading and ridiculous. We took a lot of casualties and put a lot of effort into that mission and to close it out that way was wrong. Morale was really down at that point, and it was an extremely pointless effort,” he added. “It was the final indignity for our military heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way to satisfy a callous commander-in-chief who kept changing his mind to suit the political winds,” the junior stated. WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan Closes Vital Border Crossing with Afghanistan US' hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan The withdrawal of the United States was completed on 30 August 2021 as the Taliban took over the war-ravaged country after waging a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces which had invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, in the wake of September 11 terror attacks that year. After the withdrawal, the US Central Command head said that there was "a lot of heartbreak" during the departure. The US and its NATO allies were forced to exit Afghanistan hastily as they failed to anticipate that the Taliban would take over so quickly. The military withdrawal of the United States from Afghanistan was completed after a huge and chaotic airlift which took the lives of 13 US service members, leaving behind hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghans still seeking an escape from Taliban rule. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Degrading and ridiculous’ | US Marines picked human faeces before leaving Kabul

Mirwais Balkhi, a former Afghan education minister who fled his homeland two years ago in the wake of the Taliban's takeover, now lives in the United States. In the West, he and his friends, who also escaped Afghanistan in 2021, now grapple with depression. In this exclusive chat with WION's Heena Sharma, he talks about how his heart still longs for Kabul.

EXCLUSIVE: In US, former Afghan education minister's heart still longs for Kabul

<p>Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country.&nbsp;This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban's takeover prompted a reevaluation of Afghanistan's standing on the global stage, with nations deliberating on diplomatic recognition and their respective approaches to engagement. Regional players, like India, also sought to navigate their positions, considering potential impacts on security dynamics and the broader stability of the South Asian region.</p>

<p>On the second anniversary of the Taliban's seizure of power, the world reflects on the multifaceted changes that have taken place within Afghanistan. While the full extent of these changes continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: the events of these past two years have left an indelible mark on Afghan society, politics, and its position in the global arena.</p>

<h2><strong>End of America's 20-year war</strong></h2>

<p>The withdrawal of US forces, ending the 20-year-old war, brought about challenges and criticism. The chaotic manner in which the withdrawal was executed raised questions about the US handling of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-regime-leader-open-to-explore-diplomacy-625135">Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy'</a></p>

<p>In their previous reign during the late 1990s, the Taliban were known for conducting public executions, floggings, and stoning as punishments for individuals found guilty of crimes in Taliban courts.</p>

<p>Taliban 2.0, initially presented themselves as more moderate compared to their previous rule. However, their unmatched actions and decisions have sparked controversy and challenges on both domestic and international fronts, with no certainty as to what the future holds for Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Women's rights under attack</strong></h2>

<p>One of the most notable and controversial aspects of the Taliban has been the exclusion of Afghan girls and women from various aspects of public life. A series of bans were imposed, preventing women from accessing higher education, employment, beauty salons and parks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rationale behind these bans is the Taliban's commitment to their interpretation of Sharia law.</p>

<p>These restrictions have been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, causing the Taliban to face challenges in gaining international recognition and access to foreign aid.</p>

<p>In December of the past year, the Taliban enforced a ban on women accessing campuses, which sparked widespread global outrage.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-killed-several-injured-after-attack-on-shiite-muslim-shrine-in-iran-reports-625123">At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports</a></p>

<p>Prior to that, girls were prohibited from attending school beyond the sixth grade, an order that came shortly after the Taliban reclaimed authority in August 2021. Afghanistan is reportedly the sole nation with such restrictions on female education.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Economic challenges&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban have faced economic challenges due to the withdrawal of foreign aid and international sanctions. The majority of Afghanistan's budget had been supported by international donors, but with the Taliban taking over, aid was suspended, leading to a financial crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban have engaged in talks with neighbouring countries, such as China and Kazakhstan, to secure investments and the release of frozen funds.&nbsp;However, the international community has linked economic cooperation to improvements in women's rights and other human rights issues, creating difficulties for the Taliban leadership.</p>

<p>Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, holds significant influence over decision-making, including the implementation of gender restrictions.&nbsp;Akhundzada's decisions are final.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>International recognition&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban have sought international recognition as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, but this has been met with challenges due to concerns about their human rights record and commitments. While the Taliban leadership has engaged in diplomatic interactions with various countries, including powerful states like China and Russia, formal recognition has been elusive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo</strong></p>

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<p>Sanctions and travel restrictions on Taliban officials have also hindered their foreign outreach. However, the international community recognises the need to cooperate with the Taliban on issues such as narcotics, refugees, and counter-terrorism.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges to Taliban rule</strong></h2>

<p>While the Taliban have managed to establish control over Afghanistan, challenges to their rule have persisted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Panjshir Valley, a region historically resistant to outside control, has seen pockets of opposition. However, the Taliban's dominance in terms of both armed and political opposition has largely prevented any significant threats to their rule. The Islamic State, though weakened, has carried out attacks against the Taliban, highlighting the ongoing security concerns.</p>

<h2><strong>A complex road ahead</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban's second year in power has been marked by a mix of attempts to consolidate their rule, address economic challenges, and engage with the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, their strict interpretation of Islamic law, particularly in relation to women's rights, has drawn significant attention and criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The challenges of governing a country with a fragile economy, security concerns, and international pressure present a complex road ahead for the Taliban as they seek to navigate their position on the global stage while also maintaining control domestically.</p>

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Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country. This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations.

Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country. This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations. The Taliban's takeover prompted a reevaluation of Afghanistan's standing on the global stage, with nations deliberating on diplomatic recognition and their respective approaches to engagement. Regional players, like India, also sought to navigate their positions, considering potential impacts on security dynamics and the broader stability of the South Asian region. On the second anniversary of the Taliban's seizure of power, the world reflects on the multifaceted changes that have taken place within Afghanistan. While the full extent of these changes continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: the events of these past two years have left an indelible mark on Afghan society, politics, and its position in the global arena. End of America's 20-year war The withdrawal of US forces, ending the 20-year-old war, brought about challenges and criticism. The chaotic manner in which the withdrawal was executed raised questions about the US handling of the situation. Also Read | Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy' In their previous reign during the late 1990s, the Taliban were known for conducting public executions, floggings, and stoning as punishments for individuals found guilty of crimes in Taliban courts. Taliban 2.0, initially presented themselves as more moderate compared to their previous rule. However, their unmatched actions and decisions have sparked controversy and challenges on both domestic and international fronts, with no certainty as to what the future holds for Afghanistan. Women's rights under attack One of the most notable and controversial aspects of the Taliban has been the exclusion of Afghan girls and women from various aspects of public life. A series of bans were imposed, preventing women from accessing higher education, employment, beauty salons and parks. The rationale behind these bans is the Taliban's commitment to their interpretation of Sharia law. These restrictions have been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, causing the Taliban to face challenges in gaining international recognition and access to foreign aid. In December of the past year, the Taliban enforced a ban on women accessing campuses, which sparked widespread global outrage. Also Read | At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports Prior to that, girls were prohibited from attending school beyond the sixth grade, an order that came shortly after the Taliban reclaimed authority in August 2021. Afghanistan is reportedly the sole nation with such restrictions on female education. Economic challenges The Taliban have faced economic challenges due to the withdrawal of foreign aid and international sanctions. The majority of Afghanistan's budget had been supported by international donors, but with the Taliban taking over, aid was suspended, leading to a financial crisis. The Taliban have engaged in talks with neighbouring countries, such as China and Kazakhstan, to secure investments and the release of frozen funds. However, the international community has linked economic cooperation to improvements in women's rights and other human rights issues, creating difficulties for the Taliban leadership. Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, holds significant influence over decision-making, including the implementation of gender restrictions. Akhundzada's decisions are final. International recognition The Taliban have sought international recognition as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, but this has been met with challenges due to concerns about their human rights record and commitments. While the Taliban leadership has engaged in diplomatic interactions with various countries, including powerful states like China and Russia, formal recognition has been elusive. WATCH | Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo × Sanctions and travel restrictions on Taliban officials have also hindered their foreign outreach. However, the international community recognises the need to cooperate with the Taliban on issues such as narcotics, refugees, and counter-terrorism. Challenges to Taliban rule While the Taliban have managed to establish control over Afghanistan, challenges to their rule have persisted. The Panjshir Valley, a region historically resistant to outside control, has seen pockets of opposition. However, the Taliban's dominance in terms of both armed and political opposition has largely prevented any significant threats to their rule. The Islamic State, though weakened, has carried out attacks against the Taliban, highlighting the ongoing security concerns. A complex road ahead The Taliban's second year in power has been marked by a mix of attempts to consolidate their rule, address economic challenges, and engage with the international community. However, their strict interpretation of Islamic law, particularly in relation to women's rights, has drawn significant attention and criticism. The challenges of governing a country with a fragile economy, security concerns, and international pressure present a complex road ahead for the Taliban as they seek to navigate their position on the global stage while also maintaining control domestically. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

EXPLAINED | Key changes in Afghanistan under two years of Taliban rule

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